NEW KENT — Saturday’s 2025 Virginia Derby will feature special recognition and support for Virginia’s military families and veterans’ organizations, according to the Colonial Downs.
Special moments of recognition and tribute will include:
- Presentation of Colors by the Joint Base Langley-Eustis Honor Guard
- Special performances of the national anthem and “America the Beautiful” by Ashley B. Bell, a gospel singer-songwriter from Portsmouth,
- On-track ceremony to recognize and present a charitable contribution to representatives of American Gold Star Mothers, Hampton Roads Chapter
“Virginia is blessed with an incredible community of active-duty military, veterans, and military families that are the backbone of our Commonwealth,” said Del. Don Scott, Speaker of the House of Delegates. “As a Navy veteran myself, I appreciate this special recognition and expression of gratitude for our veterans and military community on this historic day in Virginia sports. And I know that Portsmouth’s own Ashely Bell is going to make us proud with her special performances in honor of these extraordinary Virginians.”
The Joint Base Langley-Eustis Honor Guard provides ceremonial support for various events including the 2025 Virginia Derby, according to the facility. Their primary mission is to offer military funeral honors for active-duty members, retirees, and veterans who served in the U.S. Air Force, Army Air Force, and Army Air Corps.
“On this historic day in Virginia sports, it is only right to pause and honor those whose service and sacrifice make it possible for us to enjoy the freedoms we so often take for granted,” said Aaron Palmer, Director of Virginia Government Relations. “We are proud and grateful to welcome these special guests to the Virginia Derby and thank them for all that they and their families do for the Commonwealth and our country.”
Bell will sing the national anthem early in the day’s racing action, as well as America the Beautiful immediately before the Kentucky Oaks. She has performed at several notable events, including a WNBA Chicago Sky game.
An on-track ceremony will honor special guests from the Hampton Roads Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers, an organization of mutual support for mothers who have lost a son or daughter in service of our country. Company officials and special guests will honor their service and sacrifice with a special presentation, including a charitable contribution to support the organization’s important work.
The 2025 Virginia Derby will be held on Saturday, March 15, at Colonial Downs Racetrack in New Kent. The race will serve as a qualifying race on The Road to the Kentucky Derby for the first time this year, with the winning horse securing a spot in the field for the 151st Kentucky Derby.
For tickets or more information about the 2025 Virginia Derby, visit colonialdowns.com.
